Mwakilishi News Bulletin - Midday Edition, Thursday 24 September 2026

Midday Edition for Thursday, 24 September 2026. Running time 9:03.

In this bulletin

Diaspora News

Kenya News

World News

Business News

Real Estate News

Kajiado Land Rates Collection Suspended by Court

Transcript

This is the news from Mwakilishi.com.

Good afternoon. It's midday on Thursday, the twenty-fourth of September, and here is your midday edition.

Coming up.

Kenya's diaspora voters face manual voting in 2027.

Acute milk shortage causes prices to soar in Kenya.

TPLF captures strategic airport amid rising tensions in Ethiopia.

Those stories, and more, in the next few minutes.

Turning to diaspora news, former Chief Justice David Maraga has emphasized the need for stronger and more independent institutions in Kenya during his visit to Minnesota's State Capitol. Maraga, welcomed by Kenyan-American legislator Huldah Momanyi, highlighted the importance of involving young people in governance. He pointed to Minnesota's programs that engage youth in legislative processes as a model for Kenya. Maraga's U.S. tour focuses on constitutionalism, accountability, and resilient public institutions.

Staying with diaspora news, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has announced that Kenyans living abroad will vote manually in the 2027 election. Speaking in New York, IEBC Vice Chair Fahima Abdallah said e-voting isn’t expected before 2032. The number of countries for diaspora voting will increase from twelve to twenty-six. Advocates, like Danson Mukile, push for reforms to improve diaspora voter registration and participation. Current laws limit voting to presidential elections and referendums.

Also in diaspora news, government officials visited Kwale County to provide support under the Diaspora Mashinani programme. Led by Anne Mruche, residents learned about services for Kenyans abroad and safe migration practices. Prospective migrants were advised on verifying recruitment agencies and ensuring proper documentation. The importance of skills development in fields like nursing and ICT for overseas jobs was highlighted. The initiative aims to ensure the welfare of Kenyans working abroad and promote orderly migration.

Turning to Kenya news, Kirinyaga Senator Kamau Murang’o faces backlash over distributing branded women’s underwear. Residents criticized the initiative, calling for more practical support. Some questioned the use of items branded with the National Government Affirmative Action Fund, typically associated with women representatives. The controversy raises concerns about campaign methods as Murang’o eyes the gubernatorial race. He has served as senator since September twenty twenty-two and is active in multiple Senate committees.

Staying with Kenya, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has urged Kenya to protect its citizens from being recruited to fight for Russia. Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly, Zelenskyy claimed Russia exploits vulnerable individuals through deceptive recruitment. Kenya's National Intelligence Service estimates about a thousand Kenyans have been recruited. Kenyan families report relatives missing or captured. The issue has prompted parliamentary scrutiny, with officials summoned to address efforts for the release and return of affected Kenyans.

Also in Kenya news, an acute milk shortage is causing prices to double, heavily impacting consumers. The shortage results from adverse weather, rising production costs, and supply chain issues. Regions reliant on dairy farming are particularly affected, with local economies feeling the strain. The price surge affects households and businesses, raising concerns about food security and nutrition. Calls for interventions to stabilize the dairy industry are growing, as milk remains a staple for Kenyan consumers.

Turning to world news, the Tigray People's Liberation Front has captured a strategic airport in Mekelle, escalating tensions with Ethiopia's central government. The move marks a significant shift in the ongoing power struggle. This renewed mobilization follows a fragile ceasefire and raises concerns about a potential full-scale conflict in Ethiopia. The international community worries about the humanitarian impact and regional stability, as Ethiopia plays a crucial role in the African Union and could influence regional dynamics.

Staying with world news, President William Ruto is set to address the UN General Assembly, focusing on global challenges like climate change, sustainable development, and peace. Speaking in New York, Ruto will emphasize Kenya's role in international diplomacy and the need for international cooperation. His address is expected to highlight Africa's climate challenges and the importance of financial support for achieving sustainable development goals. Ruto's speech underscores Kenya's commitment to regional stability and global peace efforts.

Also in world news, Shadrack Sibiya, a high-profile South African policeman, has been charged with serious sexual offences, including grooming a minor and rape. These allegations have shocked many due to his prominent status in law enforcement. As the case unfolds, it draws significant media and public attention. The investigation is ongoing, and further developments are anticipated as legal proceedings progress. Sibiya has yet to make a public statement regarding the charges against him.

Also making world news, a survivor from a Nigerian prison has detailed horrific conditions that led to the deaths of 33 cellmates. Overcrowding and extreme heat in the facility highlight broader issues within Nigeria's prison system. Human rights organizations have long raised concerns about overcrowding and inadequate facilities. The tragedy has sparked outrage and calls for urgent reforms. The survivor's testimony underscores the dire need for improved oversight and reform to prevent further loss of life in Nigerian prisons.

Turning to business news, the U.S. Congress has extended the African Growth and Opportunity Act through twenty twenty-eight. This extension provides duty-free access to the U.S. market for eligible African countries, boosting trade and investment. The AGOA Civil Society Organization Network welcomed the move, emphasizing the importance of sustaining economic ties. As African economies recover from the pandemic, AGOA offers opportunities to diversify trading partners. However, challenges remain in fully capitalizing on AGOA's benefits.

Staying with business news, Kenya's number of ATMs fell by about two point six six percent in twenty twenty-five, reflecting a shift to digital banking. As banks and consumers embrace mobile solutions, the financial landscape evolves. Mobile banking, crucial for financial inclusion, allows access without traditional infrastructure, especially in rural areas. Platforms like M-Pesa are widely used, accelerating this transition. Banks are investing in digital platforms as traditional services like ATMs see reduced demand.

In real estate news, the Environment and Land Court has suspended Kajiado County's collection of land rates. The suspension is pending a petition challenging the legality of the county’s Finance Act, twenty twenty-six. Lawyer Shadrack Wambui, who filed the petition, argues the rates are unlawful. The court previously ruled against similar provisions in twenty twenty-three. The case highlights ongoing legal disputes over land charges, with the latest order preventing immediate collection while the petition is heard.

And that is your midday edition. The next bulletin is at 6 o'clock this evening. You can read every one of these stories in full, and much more besides, at Mwakilishi.com.

Have a good afternoon.

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